Method and apparatus for measuring spaces with limited access

Abstract

A method and apparatus for measuring a space between parts having restricted access is disclosed. An apparatus may comprise an elongate member, a flange, and a measurement system. An end of the elongate member is configured to move through a hole in a first structure into a space located between the first structure and a second structure. The flange extends from the elongate member. The elongate member is configured to expand after the flange exits the hole in the first structure such that the flange is unable to pass back through the hole. The measurement system is configured to measure movement of the end of the elongate member to identify a length of the space between the first structure and the second structure.

Description

BACKGROUND INFORMATION[0001]1. Field[0002]The present disclosure relates generally to measuring and, more particularly, the present disclosure relates to methods and apparatuses for measuring a space between components. Still more particularly, the present disclosure relates to the measurement of the space between components, such as aircraft components, where the space is accessible by a hole in one of the components.[0003]2. Background[0004]Manufacturing structures, such as those for aircraft, involve the assembly of different parts to form the structures. A certain level of fit between parts is desired but not always possible. For example, during manufacture of an aircraft tail assembly, the skin of a horizontal stabilizer is attached to a spar of the aircraft frame. The skin and spar are examples of adjacent pieces that may have a space between them.[0005]A shim may be placed in the space between adjacent parts. In certain cases, identifying the size of a space between the two a...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present patent provides a method and apparatus for measuring the space between parts. The apparatus includes an elongate member that can be inserted into a hole in a first structure and expand to measure the space between the first and second structures. The apparatus can be easily inserted and expanded, and the measurement system can record the movement of the elongate member. The method involves inserting the elongate member into the hole of the first structure and measuring the distance between the first and second surfaces of the parts. The technical effects of the invention include providing a simple and efficient way to measure the space between parts, which can be useful in various fields such as manufacturing and construction.

Problems solved by technology

A certain level of fit between parts is desired but not always possible.

The physical configuration of assembled parts can present difficulties for measuring the space between the parts.

For example, an operator may have difficulties in accessing the space between the parts to make measurements of the space.

In other cases, access may be limited to an opening that may be present in the parts or between the parts.

With these situations, measurements may not be made with as great a level of precision as desired.

As a result, the manufacturing of the aircraft may take more time and expense than desired to obtain a desired fit between parts.

Images